Louisiana may soon be welcoming international soccer and rugby matches to the vast array of events that can seek funding support from the state. Senator Patrick Connick has introduced Senate Bill 404, which would make it possible for the international and national governing bodies of soccer and rugby to qualify for state incentives if their teams compete in Louisiana. This includes events such as World Cup matches and friendly matches between national or professional teams.
Organizations like FIFA, World Rugby, U.S. Soccer, and USA Rugby would now be eligible for support from the state’s major event fund. Legislators argue that investing public funds in these large events is justified because they bring back more tax revenue to the state through hotel stays and other spending by out-of-town guests. Additionally, the fund supports annual events in New Orleans like the Bayou Classic, Essence Festival, and Zurich Classic golf tournament. The current budget being considered by the Louisiana Legislature allocates $14 million from the major events incentive fund for the next year. Governor Jeff Landry requested $10 million of that funding to go towards hosting Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans in 2025.
While New Orleans was not selected as a host city for the 2026 soccer World Cup, it could potentially be in the running to host the rugby World Cup in 2031 when America hosts and participates in the tournament. This legislation was proposed on behalf of NOLA Gold, a professional rugby team based in Metairie, and has already been approved by the Senate but is currently awaiting a vote in the House of Representatives.